Speculation in the English media on Tuesday morning linked the 27-year-old with a move to the Etihad Stadium, with Blues boss Roberto Mancini expected to overhaul his squad after missing out on the title.

Lucescu insists Fernandinho will only be sold if his release clause is met, but he feels a move to City would be a step down for the midfielder.

"If City want to [sign Fernandinho], the clause is €50 million [£42.3m]," Lucescu told PRO TV.

"If our players receive offers from teams higher than Shakhtar, we do everything possible to help them. Currently, I think Manchester City are not at our level."

The five-time capped Brazil international is contracted to the Ukraine champions until 2016, having joined for £7m from Atletico Paranaense in 2005, and won the Uefa Cup in 2009 with the club.